Unraveling the Secrets of “This Woven Kingdom”
To the outside world, Alizeh seems nothing more than a mere servant. Little do they know, she’s actually the hidden heir to a forgotten Jinn empire, cleverly masquerading in the most unsuspecting role. When Kamran, the crown prince, catches wind of a prophecy that signals the end for his reigning king, he’s shaken. He never expected the servant with the mysterious gaze, the one he finds himself inexplicably drawn to, to be the very key to a monumental upheaval in his realm and beyond.
This riveting first entry in a fresh fantasy trilogy, penned by the renowned author Tahereh Mafi, is a must-read for those who adore the works of Leigh Bardugo, Tomi Adeyemi, and Sabaa Tahir.
Accolades
“Through the pages of this spellbinding narrative, I felt transported into an enchanting realm. Upon completion, I half-expected the book to transmute into a cascade of precious stones and luxurious fabrics. Mafi’s unique storytelling, imbued with elements of Persian lore, weaves an enchanting tale filled with treachery, a tantalizing romance, and the shimmer of magic. Eagerly awaiting the sequel!” – Roshani Chokshi, acclaimed author of The Gilded Wolves.
“Finally, a narrative drawing inspiration from The Shahnameh. ‘This Woven Kingdom’ ensnared me with its intricate world-building and the fierce passion between its leads. The novel gleams like a precious gem, but with sharp, cutting facets.” – Renée Ahdieh, celebrated author of The Wrath & the Dawn series. “A blend of poetic descriptions and an intense love story results in this mesmerizing saga. It’s a piece of art that tugs at the heartstrings.” – Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“A captivating tale rich in magic, courtly games, and romance. From the outset, readers are hooked. An irresistible start to what promises to be a compelling series.” – Booklist
“Drawing from the depth of Persian myths and Islamic scriptures, this grand fantasy is meticulously crafted to pull readers into its emotional core. The narrative is punctuated with evocative descriptions that paint each scene with clarity. Despite the limited interactions between Alizeh and Kamran, their forbidden love is palpable. An ending that leaves one clamoring for more.” – Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books.
“Set against the backdrop of Islamic scriptures and the evocative Persian poem, the Shahnameh, Mafi crafts a world teeming with sensory details, political intricacies, and an enthralling romance at its heart.” – Publishers Weekly.
The Realm of Concealed Destinies
In a world where myths intermingle with reality, the kingdom stands on the brink of transformation. Alizeh, with her humble guise as a servant, harbors a secret powerful enough to reshape the fate of her homeland. Behind the palace walls, her identity remains a mystery, but whispers of her true lineage have begun to stir.
Prince Kamran, a noble soul, stands as the kingdom’s beacon of hope. When he learns of the prophecy, dread fills his heart. It speaks of turmoil, the fall of a king, and the rise of an unlikely savior. Intriguingly, the servant, with her enigmatic aura, seems to be entwined with this foretold destiny. Kamran finds himself battling an inner turmoil: his duty towards his kingdom and the inexplicable connection he feels towards Alizeh. As political intrigues thicken and hidden plots unfold, the palace corridors buzz with anticipation and dread. Allies and foes walk side by side, and trust becomes a luxury few can afford. The balance of power teeters, and the fate of the kingdom hinges on revelations and choices. Amidst the chaos, Alizeh emerges as the beacon of change. Her journey, riddled with challenges, tests her mettle and determination. As she grapples with her newfound identity and the weight of her destiny, she also discovers the profound power of love, trust, and sacrifice.
Conclusion
Tahereh Mafi, with her unparalleled ability to weave stories, plunges readers into a whirlwind of emotions. She intricately layers her narrative with themes of love, betrayal, destiny, and redemption. Through her words, the world she creates is not just a realm of fantasy but a mirror to our own world, reflecting the timeless battles of power, love, and choices.